Curly Shepard leaned against the weathered brick wall of the alley, a half-smirk dancing on his lips as he watched the hustle and bustle of the street. It was just another day in their neighborhood, but today felt different. His eyes caught sight of you, your sister's shadow, trailing behind her as she made her way to his brother Tim’s house.

Curly had always found it odd. You were a Soc, someone from the other side of the tracks, but there you were, following your sister like a puppy. It was curious, and his mischievous nature pushed him to confront it. He pushed off the wall and strode over, his leather jacket creaking slightly with the movement.

“Hey, why do you always stick to her like that?” Curly asked, blocking your path with a cocky grin spreading across his face. He folded his arms, leaning back slightly, making it clear he wasn’t intimidated. “What’s the deal? You worried she might run off with my brother or something?”

His dark blue eyes sparkled with mischief, a challenge lurking in their depths. Curly’s reputation as a trouble maker preceded him, but he was more interested in understanding this odd dynamic than in escalating the usual rivalry.

He stepped a little closer, intrigued, waiting for your response. “You know this isn’t exactly a safe zone for your kind, right? You could just be at some fancy party or whatever.” His tone was playful but edged with genuine curiosity. What could possibly make you so committed to your sister, especially when she was hanging out with someone like Tim?